Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
No
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
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Sharks Cove is a large set of tide pools located at Pupukea Beach Park on the North Shore of O'ahu. Largely protected by a natural breakwater, the pools are vast and calm and great for snorkeling. Pupukea is a big park with multiple beaches, coves and sections. There is a basketball court, showers and bathrooms, and multiple parking lots. There are a few large sandy beaches and several rocky ones. This area is not known for surfing, which is funny when you consider it is between some of the best spots in the world.

Many people are intimidated to enter the ocean while visiting the North Shore, and it is dangerous. Sharks Cove is awesome because it eliminates the shorebreak issue, and there is a large beach to enjoy between snorkel sessions. Don't be fooled by the name; no sharks enter the tide pools. There is a much larger and deeper swimming hole that is the official "Sharks Cove" to the east that has way better diving but is more open and dangerous. The unofficial but more commonly used shallow pools are called "Sharks Cove" all the same. Underwater tunnels and caves are found all over the area, and doing swim-through's is a fun but dangerous pastime. Keep an eye out for humpback whales during the winter months.

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Awesome snorkeling. Easy access. Has a protected tide pool.

Cons

Can get crowded. Dangerous on big surf days.

Features

Picnic tables
Tide pools
Wildlife
Whale watching
Bird watching
Tide pools

Location

Comments

05/07/2017
Great location for snorkeling and shore diving, provided that the winter swell has died down. Can be a bit overwhelming in the summer months with the number of people constantly in the water.
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